VIN LOCATION
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.
VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION
Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.
VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 1
SHORT TRIP/CITY & LONG TRIP/HIGHWAY SERVICE DEFINITIONS
Note. General Motors has renamed their maintenance schedules; One is referred to as the Short-Trip/City and the other is the Long Trip/Highway schedule. These schedule requirements are similar to the familiar Severe Service and Normal Service schedules and can be used in place of one another.
SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS
Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions
Normal Service - Long Trip/Highway
- Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
- No Severe Service Operating Conditions
Severe Service - Short Trip/City
Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions
- Most Trips Are Less Than 5 To 10 Miles (8 To 16 km) This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing
- Most Trips Include Extensive Idling (Such As Frequent Stop-And-Go Traffic)
- Most Trips Are Through Dusty Areas
- You Frequently Tow A Trailer Or Use A Carrier On Top Of Your Vehicle
- If The Vehicle Is Used For Delivery Service, Police, Taxi, Or Other Commercial Application
Scheme 2
Scheme 3
LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS - OLDSMOBILE
| Material | Condition | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil (1) | Ambient Temperature Above 0 °F (-18°C) To Over 100°F (38°C) | SAE 10W-30 |
| Engine Oil (1) | Ambient Temperature Below 0°F (-18°C) But Not Over 60°F (16°C) | SAE 5W-30 |
| Engine Coolant | All | 50/50 Mixture Of Distilled Water & DEX-COOL |
| Power Steering Fluid | Regular Climate | GM Power Steering Fluid Or Equivalent (GM Part # 1050017) |
| Power Steering Fluid | Cold Climate | Low Temperature Climate Service Fluid (GM Part # 12345866) |
| Automatic Transaxle Fluid | All | Dexron III ATF |
| Brake Fluid | All | DOT 3 |
| Parking BrakeCable Guides Lubricant | All | Chassis Lubricant (GM Part # 1052497) |
| Chassis Lubrication | All | Chassis Lubricant (GM Part # 1052497) |
| Floor Shift Linkage Lubricant | All | Aerosol Lubricant (GM Part # 12346293) |
| Key Lock Cylinders Lubricant | All | Multi-Purpose Lubricant |
| Hood Latch Pivots, Spring AnchorRelease Pawl Lubricant | All | Aerosol Lubricant (GM Part # 12346293) |
| Hood & Door Hinges Lubricant | All | Multi-Purpose Lubricant |
| A/C Refrigerant | All | R-134a |
| Weather Strip Lubricant | All | Dielectric Silicone Grease or Equivalent |
| (1) SAE 10W-30 engine oil is preferred. Do not use 20W-50 or any other non-recommended grade. Use only API-approved oil with starburst symbol. | ||
| (1) | SAE 10W-30 engine oil is preferred. Do not use 20W-50 or any other non-recommended grade. Use only API-approved oil with starburst symbol. |
LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS - OLDSMOBILE
FLUID CAPACITIES - OLDSMOBILE
| Item | Condition | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | Drained, With New Filter | 5 Qts. (4.75L) |
| Engine Coolant | System Drained | 13 Qts. (12.3L) |
| Automatic Transmission Fluid | Drained, Pan Removed | 6 Qts. (5.6L) |
| Automatic Transmission Fluid | Overhaul | 11 Qts. (10.4L) |
| Power Steering Fluid | Complete System | 1.5 Pts. (.75L) |
| Power Steering Fluid | Pump Only | 1 Pt. (.5L) |
| A/C Refrigerant | Evacuated | 2 Lbs. (.91L) |
| Fuel Tank | Full Capacity | 18 Gal. (68L) |
| (1) Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level. | ||
| (1) | Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level. |
FLUID CAPACITIES - OLDSMOBILE (1)
LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS - BUICK
| Material | Condition | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil (1) | Ambient Temperature Less Than 0°F (-18°C) Up To 60°F (16°C) | SAE 5W-30: API SH or SG |
| Engine Oil (1) | Ambient Temperature Above 0°F (-18°C) To Over 100°F (38°C) | SAE 10W-30: API SH or SG |
| Chassis Lubrication | All | GM Part No.1052497 Or Equivalent Or LubricantNLGI #2, Category LB OrGC-LB. |
| Power Steering Fluid | All | GM Power Steering Fluid(GM Part No. 1052884 - 1 Pint, 1050017 - 1 Quart, Or Equivalent) |
| Engine Coolant Antifreeze | All | 50/50 Mixture Of Clean Water (Preferably Distilled) And Use OnlyGM Goodwrench DEX-COOL Or Havoline DEX-COOL Coolant. |
| Automatic Transaxle | All | DEXRON-III Automatic Transmission Fluid |
| A/C Refrigerant | All | SAE J639 Compliant R134a |
| (1) SAE 10W-30 Preferred | ||
| (1) | SAE 10W-30 Preferred |
LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS - BUICK
FLUID CAPACITIES - BUICK
| Item | Condition | Specification (1) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 3.8L: Drained, With New Filter | 5.0 Qts. (4.7L) |
| Engine Coolant | 3.8L: Drained | 13.0 Qts. (11.65L) |
| Automatic Transaxle Oil | Drained (2) | 6.0 Qts. (5.6L) |
| A/C Refrigerant | Evacuated | (3) |
| Fuel Tank | Full Capacity | 18.0 Gal. (68.0L) |
| (1) Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level. (2) When replacing converter, more fluid may be needed. (3) See refrigerant charge label under the hood. | ||
| (1) | Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level. |
| (2) | When replacing converter, more fluid may be needed. |
| (3) | See refrigerant charge label under the hood. |
FLUID CAPACITIES - BUICK
TIRE REPLACEMENT
Replace tires with the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction as the original tires on the vehicle.
TIRE INFLATION
The tire specification decal, located on rear of the driver's door, lists maximum vehicle load, recommended tire size and cold inflation pressure.
WHEEL TIGHTENING
Tighten all wheel lug nuts to 100 ft. lbs. (140 N.m).
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicles are delivered with a Delco Freedom battery. Water need never be added to one of these. If the battery needs to be replaced, it is recommended a Delco Freedom battery be used. Replace the battery with the replacement number shown on the original battery's label.
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG)
Note. See the AIR BAGS article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.
Modifications or improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), can adversely affect system performance. DO NOT cover, obstruct or change the steering wheel horn pad in any way, as such action could cause improper function of the system. Use only plain water when cleaning the horn pad. Solvents or cleaners could adversely affect the air bag cover and cause improper deployment of the system.
| WARNING | To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAGS article in ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT. |
Modification to the air bag system component or wiring can adversely affect system performance and possibly cause injury.
| CAUTION | The Diagnostic Energy Reserve Module (DERM) can maintain enough voltage to cause a deployment of the inflator module for up to 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned off and the battery is disconnected. Many of the service procedures require disconnection of the inflator module to avoid an accidental deployment. |
| CAUTION | Disconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation |
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING
| WARNING | Avoid breathing R-134a refrigerant and PAG lubricant vapors, exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove R-134a from system use R-134a recycling equipment that meets SAE J2210 specifications. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service. |
| WARNING | R-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C systems SHOULD NOT be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Some mixtures of air/R134a have shown to be combustible at elevated pressures. These mixtures are dangerous and may cause fire and/or explosions. See AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE article in GENERAL INFORMATION section. |
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
| CAUTION | The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals. |
On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions
- DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
- DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
- Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.
REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
| CAUTION | Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload. |
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER (GASOLINE MODELS)
| CAUTION | To prevent catalytic converter overheating, DO NOT allow engine to idle for more than 20 minutes. |
COOLANT (DEX-COOL 1995-96 MODELS)
| CAUTION | All models have DEX-COOL engine coolant installed at the factory. DEX-COOL coolant is a silicate-free coolant that is orange in color. |
Note. It should not be mixed with regular ethylene-glycol coolant. To avoid possible damage to vehicle cooling system, visually check engine coolant color before adding and/or changing engine coolant. Vehicle should have an identification label placed under the hood stating what type coolant is installed.
| WARNING | Do NOT add only plain water to the cooling system. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. The vehicle's coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix only. With plain water or the wrong mix, the engine could get too hot, but the overheat warning may not appear. The engine could catch fire and passengers in the vehicle could be seriously injured. |
Use a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and DEX-COOL engine coolant.
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
| WARNING | Many solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component. |
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE
| WARNING | Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component. |
HALOGEN BULBS
| WARNING | Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs. |
METHANOL GASOLINE
| CAUTION | Fuel that is more than 5% methanol should not be used in this vehicle. It can corrode metal parts in the fuel system, and damage plastic and rubber parts. Even at 5% methanol or less, solvents and corrosion preventers must be used with this fuel to avoid these problems. |
RADIATOR CAP
| CAUTION | Always disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot. |
RADIATOR FAN
| WARNING | Keep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off. |
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
| CAUTION | If tires are allowed to spin at high speeds when TRACTION OFF light is on, tires can explode. Also, spinning the tires with the warning light on can cause the transaxle to overheat. DO NOT spin wheels above 35 MPH. |
WARRANTY INFORMATION
| CAUTION | Due to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options. |
BUMPER-TO-BUMPER PLUS COVERAGE LIMITED WARRANTY
Everything is covered for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Also covered by this warranty are any repairs to vehicle which have proven defective during material and workmanship in normal use. Warranty repairs (parts and labor) will be made by the Dealer at no charge using new or remanufactured parts by the Dealer. This warranty is subject to a 100 deductible for each repair visit after the first year or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Maintenance items are covered up to their first scheduled replacement interval only.
TIRE COVERAGE
The tires supplied with the vehicle are covered against defects in material or workmanship under the Bumper-To-Bumper coverage. Any tire replaced under the Bumper-To-Bumper coverage will continue to be covered for the remaining portion of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CORROSION & RUST-THROUGH COVERAGE (ALL MODELS)
Body sheet metal panels are covered against for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Covers any body-sheet metal panel that rusts through continues to be covered 6 years or 100,000 miles whichever occurs first.
Note. Cosmetic or surface corrosion (resulting from stone chips or scratches in the paint, for example) in not included in sheet metal coverage.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT COVERAGE (ALL MODELS)
Covers supplemental restraint system (if equipped) for 3 years, regardless of mileage.
EMISSIONS "DEFECT" & "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTIES (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Defect Warranty ensures that vehicle meets applicable EPA regulations and that vehicle's emission control system is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
The Performance Warranty covers all costs of repairing or adjusting any components or parts as needed in order for the vehicle to pass a federally required state or local emissions test for a period of 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Other emission control parts related to these components are covered by the Performance Warranty, where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.
If a catalytic converter or vehicle (powertrain) control module is found to be defective under either of these warranties, those parts are warranted for a period of 8 years or 80,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
If vehicle fails a Smog Check inspection, all necessary repairs and adjustments will be made by manufacturer to ensure that vehicle passes the inspection. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION "DEFECT" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
If any emission-related part on the vehicle is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Some emission-related parts are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles whichever occurs first, and will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer if found to be defective in material or workmanship. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.
TOWING
Towing is covered to the nearest Buick dealer facility if the vehicle cannot be driven because of a warranted defect.